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(Gomphocarpus fruticosus)
Narrowleaf Cotton Bush (Gomphocarpus fruticosus)
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Jean and Fred Hort
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Jean and Fred Hort
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Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Jean and Fred Hort | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: jeans_Photos | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Gomphocarpus fruticosus, commonly known as Narrowleaf Cotton Bush, is an evergreen perennial herb native to open woodlands, plains, and grasslands from Eritrea to South Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It typically grows to a height of 2-6 feet (0.6-1.8 meters) and a width of 1 foot (0.3 meters). The plant features clusters of small, star-shaped white to cream flowers that bloom in summer, followed by distinctive inflated seed pods that resemble spiky balloons. These pods add an ornamental value to the plant, especially when dried for arrangements.
Narrowleaf Cotton Bush is valued for its unique seed pods and is used in xeriscaping, naturalized areas, and as a specimen in gardens. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soils, preferring full sun to partial shade. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to aphids and whiteflies. In regions where it is not native, it can become invasive, so it is crucial to consult local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Narrowleaf Cotton Bush is valued for its unique seed pods and is used in xeriscaping, naturalized areas, and as a specimen in gardens. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soils, preferring full sun to partial shade. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to aphids and whiteflies. In regions where it is not native, it can become invasive, so it is crucial to consult local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Herb
- Height: 1.5-6 feet
- Width: 1-4 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to open woodlands, plains, and grasslands from Eritrea to South Africa and the Arabian Peninsula
Other Names
Common Names: Wild Cotton, Milkweed, Narrow-Leaf Cotton Bush, Swan Plant
Scientific Names: , Gomphocarpus fruticosus, Gomphocarpus fruticosus var. purpureus,
GBIF Accepted Name: Gomphocarpus fruticosus (L.) W.T.Aiton